Paris—A French police officer is formally under judicial investigation after a 14-year-old student was seriously injured in the face during a clash between police and students in the town of Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône, northwest of Paris.
The incident occurred on September 28, amidst student
protests that have spread to various cities across France. According to the
Pontoise Public Prosecutor's Office, the officer is being investigated for
violence committed by a person in a position of public authority, resulting in
mutilation or permanent disability.
The teenager, identified as Eden, was struck by a tear gas
grenade fired at close range. As a result, he suffered severe injuries to his
jaw and lost several teeth. His family has stated that he has undergone medical
procedures and is currently only able to consume liquids.
The officer's actions are also being examined by the French
National Police Inspectorate General (IGPN), the body responsible for
investigating potential misconduct by members of the security forces.
As part of the legal proceedings, the officer has been
placed under judicial supervision and suspended from duty while the
investigation continues. The investigation will have to establish the exact
circumstances of the shooting and determine whether the use of force was
justified.
The incident comes amid growing tension between students and
security forces. The protests began with demands related to school conditions,
teacher shortages, and deteriorating facilities, but clashes and episodes of
violence have occurred in various parts of the country.